Adolescent Rheumatology
Teenagers and young adults with joint pain, swelling, morning stiffness or unexplained fatigue sometimes need more than a sports injury review. I look at whether the pattern points to an inflammatory, autoimmune or musculoskeletal condition that would benefit from rheumatology input.
What adolescent rheumatology is
Adolescent rheumatology looks at autoimmune, inflammatory and musculoskeletal conditions affecting young people. Symptoms can be variable: pain, swelling, stiffness, fatigue, rashes, fever or eye inflammation may come and go, and the impact on school, sport and emotional wellbeing can be significant.
Symptoms to look out for
Persistent swollen or painful joints
Morning stiffness or limping after rest
Unexplained fatigue or reduced activity
Rashes, fevers or weight loss with joint symptoms
Eye redness, pain or blurred vision
Why this matters to a rheumatologist
Young people may need a rheumatology assessment when symptoms suggest inflammatory arthritis, lupus, vasculitis, hypermobility syndromes or an autoimmune condition rather than a simple sports injury. Getting the pattern right early helps protect joints, growth and quality of life.
Signs I would like you to seek care for
For emergency symptoms please seek urgent or emergency care first rather than waiting for a WhatsApp reply.
Joint swelling lasting more than a few weeks
Pain with fever, rash, weight loss or tiredness
Eye pain or visual changes
Known childhood arthritis moving into adult care
What a specialist review looks like
In clinic I take a careful history, examine joints, review skin and eyes, and consider blood tests, imaging and coordination with paediatric or adult specialists where needed. For younger patients, parent involvement helps with history, medication decisions and practical support.
Questions my patients often ask me
Speak with me
If you are worried about a teenager or young adult with joint pain, swelling or inflammatory symptoms, WhatsApp my clinic and we can help you decide whether a rheumatology assessment is the right next step.
Other conditions I treat
This page is for general education only and does not replace medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.